English as a Second Language (ESL)
Our English as a Second Language (ESL) classes provide a welcoming space for learners from around the world to practice English, build confidence, and make friends. With caring teachers and small group settings, students grow in language skills while sharing life and culture together.
Registration
2026 Fall Term classes begin on September 22 and will go through December 17.
Registration for summer term is on Thu, September 17 from 9:30 to 11:30 am at Park Street Church, 1 Park St., Boston, MA 02108.
Most of our classes require in-person registration so that we can best determine through an exam (grammar, idioms, and writing sample) which level you will be in. We teach beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.
Please contact Ariel Lee, ESL Coordinator, with any questions.
English Language Classes
We offer six levels of English instruction each Fall, Spring, and Summer. We also offer a "Language Partners" program that pairs native speakers with learners for more individualized attention. All classes are taught by caring volunteer teachers from Park Street and surrounding area churches, and held inside the church campus at One Park Street, just across the street from Park Street subway station. Some classes are held on Zoom. Most classes have fewer than 10 students and maximum class size is 15.
Registration is required before the beginning of each session for each English Language Class. If you are a new student, please bring a state-issued photo identification card to registration. You will be given a placement test to determine which level is best for you.
Did you know?
Recently the foreign-born population of the city of Boston was determined to be 184,000. Annually more than 80,000 temporary-visa students and scholars arrive in metro Boston, making Massachusetts the state with the highest share of internationals students in the. US. Historically, hundreds of refugees are resettled across metro Boston. Park Street Church, located in the heart of the city, is pleased to offer an English Language Program through its FOCUS program.
* Foreign-born population: U.S. Census Bureau/American Community Survey, via Data USA (2024). International student figures: Institute of International Education's Open Doors report, cited in Boston Indicators, "Brain Gain: International Students in Massachusetts" (May 2025).
Ni hao! I came to Boston as a visiting scholar at BWH. I attended the Professional Communications Workshop and learned a lot about presentations. I appreciate teacher Whay because of the well-prepared lessons, homework assignments, discussion and presentations. It was a really friendly learning experience. I strongly recommend you take this English class.
Wei
a medical doctor from China
While a research fellow at MGH, I enrolled in two classes: conversational English and PCW. One class provided many settings to practice English: discussing homework, touring museums, cooking, singing and more. In the communications class I learned how to present my research with confidence and in engaging ways. I had fun learning American culture with classmates from different countries.
Min
a researcher from Shenzhen
Konnichiwa! I joined the Professional Communication Workshop to practice speaking in front of people. Our instructor taught passionately and gave us many practical tips. Park Street Church offers a place where you can get out of your comfort zone and make mistakes in an affirming environment with lots of friends and caring, devoted teachers.
Ayako S.
a conference interpreter from Japan
May 19 – August 13
2026 Fall Classes
Conversational English
Tue & Thu • 9:30–11:30 am
$160
For anyone seeking to learn grammar, expand vocabulary, and develop confidence with everyday conversations. Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced levels. Students are placed according to written and oral language proficiency. Cost $160 (including textbook). Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 am.
Walking Tours: Explore Boston with other ESL students!
Select Tues or Thurs 12:00pm
Walk the Freedom Trail. Visit Back Bay. Walk the Esplanade. Free! Students must pay for occasional transportation and admission fees. . End time varies by destination. All English levels welcome.
Famous Sayings of Jesus
Wed 12pm-1:30pm
Free! Learn English while eating lunch and studying some of Jesus' most famous parables. Parables are short stories used to teach a lesson. All English levels welcome.
Language Partners
Weekly
$60
Online • In-Person
Contact Polo Kim to be added to the waitlist. Customized, one‐on‐one learning with an English teacher. This is a great opportunity to practice English and make a new friend! Cost $60. Weekly – days and times are decided by you and your language partner. Contact Ariel Lee, Park Street’s ESL Coordinator.
Park Street International Fellowship
Sun • 12:30 – 3 Pm
Join us for small group Bible discussions in English. All international students, scholars and their families are invited. Come learn about Christianity and the Bible in a friendly and open environment, where any question is welcome. No need to register, and lunch is provided. Sundays, 12:30‐3:00 pm. Questions? Contact Polo Kim, Minister to Internationals.